Managing a lupus flare can be physically and emotionally draining, so the goal is reduce inflammation, prevent complications and conserve energy while also keeping your mind gently engaged.
If you’re living with lupus, this is about supporting your body — not pushing through.
Recognising a Flare
In a nutshell a flare is literally a ‘flare up’ of your symptoms. Sudden or gradual increase in disease activity, where your existing symptoms worsen or brand-new ones appear. Because lupus can affect almost any organ, flares look different for everyone, but they are generally defined by a measurable increase in inflammation.
Common signs (especially with Systemic lupus erythematosus) include:
Increased fatigue
Joint pain or swelling
Rashes (especially butterfly rash)
Fever
Headaches
Chest pain
Hair loss
Brain fog
If symptoms are severe - chest pain, abdominal pain, shortness of breath, confusion, high fever - 102°F (39°C), new/worsening leg swelling or high blood pressure - contact your doctor immediately.
How to Take Care of Yourself During a Flare
1. Prioritise Rest (Aggressively)
Cancel or reschedule non-essential plans.
Nap without guilt.
Use the “spoon theory” mindset — conserve energy for essentials.
Fatigue during a flare is inflammatory, not just “tired.”
2. Follow Your Treatment Plan
Take medications exactly as prescribed.
Don’t adjust doses without your doctor.
If you’re on steroids or immunosuppressants, consistency is key.
If your symptoms do not settle or if you cannot manage your condition with your usual plan. contact your doctor.
3. Reduce Inflammation Through Gentle Habits
Stay hydrated.
Eat anti-inflammatory foods (salmon, leafy greens, berries, olive oil).
Avoid heavy processed foods and excess sugar.
Limit sun exposure (UV can worsen lupus rashes and flares).
Wear SPF 50+
Protective clothing
Avoid midday sun
4. Manage Pain Safely
Warm baths or heating pads for joint pain.
Gentle stretching (only if tolerable).
Elevate swollen joints.
5. Protect Your Mental Health
Lupus flares can trigger:
Anxiety
Irritability
Low mood
Isolation
Be proactive:
Tell close friends/family you’re flaring.
Lower expectations.
Practice short guided breathing (5–10 minutes)
How to Keep Yourself Occupied (Without Overexerting)
When your body is flaring, aim for low-energy, low-stress distracting activities.
Low-Energy Comfort Activities
Audiobooks or podcasts
Comfort TV shows
Gentle journaling
Adult colouring books
Knitting or crocheting (if tolerable)
Light puzzles
Reading
🚩 When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your provider if you experience:
Chest pain
Severe abdominal pain
Shortness of breath
Severe swelling
Persistent high fever 102°F (39°C)
New neurological symptoms
Dramatic increase in pain
If you have a dedicated Lupus Nurse Specialist, they are often the fastest point of contact for a flare.
🧡 Extra Tips That People With Lupus Find Helpful
Keep a flare kit (meds, heating pad, easy snacks, cuddly socks etc).
Batch-freeze meals on better days, or make sure you keep a few ready meals etc in the freezer so that you don’t have the extra exertion of cooking.
Track symptoms in a diary or notebook to identify triggers (stress, sun, infection, lack of sleep).
More information on lupus flares.
Angie Davidson
The content on this blog should not be seen as a substitute for medical advice. If you have, or think you may have lupus, always seek advice on a qualified physician. Find out more in our Terms of Use.
